Michael Carrick has suggested Manchester United's transfer business will continue after their pursuit of Carlos Baleba, with left-back potentially next on the agenda.
United are in advanced talks with Brighton for the 22-year-old after reportedly offering £60m plus £5m in add-ons. Baleba is set to become their third midfield addition of the summer, while Barcelona's Alejandro Balde has now emerged as a possible target for the next stage of the rebuild.
Carrick wants Man Utd to finish window stronger
Asked whether United could strengthen at left-back, Carrick avoided confirming a specific target but made clear that further recruitment remains possible.
“I just think we’re looking to strengthen the squad,” Carrick said. “We’re certainly working towards that, making the most of the situation that we have and trying to improve things.”
The United boss added that the objective is to “finish the window stronger than we went into it”, saying he believes the club are already making good progress towards that goal.
Balde's emergence as a target is therefore notable, although there is currently no indication in the supplied reporting that negotiations with Barcelona are advanced.
Baleba deal nearing agreement
United's immediate priority remains Baleba.
Talks with Brighton are at an advanced stage following the reported £65m package, with the midfielder potentially completing Carrick's overhaul in the centre of the pitch.
Even if an agreement is reached before Saturday's Premier League opener at Hull City, Baleba will not be available because of injury.
Carrick does have some positive fitness news elsewhere.
Benjamin Sesko has returned to full training after missing pre-season with a shin problem, while Karl Darlow is also back with the group.
Matthijs de Ligt has resumed training following a lengthy absence but will not face Hull. Mason Mount is considered “touch and go” after suffering a minor knock.
“Ben’s back training. So that’s again another positive,” Carrick said. “Looking forward to having him back around the group and getting him some minutes as well.”
Balde could become next priority
Once the Baleba negotiations are resolved, United will have limited time to decide whether to make another major addition.
Carrick's comments suggest the club are prepared to act if the right opportunity becomes available, and left-back is now one position firmly in focus.
For now, Baleba remains the priority. But completing that deal may simply allow United to turn their attention towards the final piece of their summer recruitment.
Key Points
- United are in advanced negotiations for Carlos Baleba.
- Their reported offer is worth £60m plus £5m in bonuses.
- Carrick has indicated United still want to strengthen.
- Alejandro Balde has emerged as a left-back target.
- Benjamin Sesko has returned to full training.
What's Next?
United will attempt to complete the Baleba agreement before deciding how far they can push their remaining transfer plans. Carrick has not confirmed that a left-back will arrive, but his comments leave the door open for another signing before the deadline.
Should Manchester United move for Alejandro Balde after completing the Carlos Baleba deal?
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